What are the main causes of damaged nails?
Damaged nails can result from a number of factors. The most common include excessive exposure to water and chemicals, the use of poor-quality nail polish or the frequent application of gels and acrylics, which can weaken the nail structure. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, zinc and B vitamins, also play a crucial role in nail health.
How can nail damage be prevented?
To prevent nail damage, it's essential to adopt a proper nail care routine. Use protective gloves when in contact with water or cleaning products, and limit the use of nail polish containing aggressive substances such as formaldehyde. It's also advisable to maintain a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals to strengthen nails from the inside out.
What are the best treatments for damaged nails?
Treatment for damaged nails starts with hydration and nutrition. Regularly apply nourishing oils such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. Keratin-enriched hand creams can also help repair brittle nails. For more severe cases, biotin-enriched treatments or specific dietary supplements may be required.
How do I repair a broken nail quickly?
To repair a broken nail quickly, you can use temporary repair techniques such as silk or fiberglass patches. Apply a special adhesive to the broken nail, place the patch over it, then apply a coat of base varnish to secure the whole. This method can protect the nail while it grows back and prevent further damage.
What innovations exist for the care of damaged nails?
The field of nail care has seen a number of recent innovations. Growth serums based on peptides and antioxidants are particularly effective in stimulating the regeneration of damaged nails. Breathable" or oxygen-permeable nail varnishes are another notable advance, allowing nails to breathe and remain healthy even under a coat of varnish.
What role does diet play in nail health?
Nutrition plays a vital role in nail health. For strong, healthy nails, it's essential to eat foods rich in protein (such as meat, fish and legumes), vitamin C (fresh fruit and vegetables), iron (red meat, spinach) and omega-3 fatty acids (oily fish, chia seeds). A sufficient intake of biotin, a B-complex vitamin, is also crucial to prevent chipping and promote nail growth.
How can professional care help treat damaged nails?
Professional care, such as moisturizing manicures and keratin treatments, can significantly improve the condition of damaged nails. These treatments are often more intensive and use high-quality products that deeply nourish the nail. Specialists can also offer personalized advice and detect underlying problems that could be causing nail damage, such as fungal infections or nutritional imbalances.
What are the dangers of cheap manicure products for nails?
Frequent use of cheap manicure products can lead to problems such as dehydration, nail breakage and yellowing. These products often contain harsh chemical compounds such as toluene, DBP (dibutyl phthalate) and formaldehyde, which can compromise nail health over the long term. We recommend choosing products without these components, and favoring brands that respect nail health.
What is the "therapeutic nail art" technique for damaged nails?
The "therapeutic nail art" technique combines aesthetics and care, using products that not only beautify nails but also treat them. This approach uses varnishes enriched with vitamins and minerals, and designs that minimize the use of harsh chemicals. Some "nail art" applications incorporate elements such as skincare powders or essential oils, bringing additional benefits to nail health while making them visually appealing.
How does stress affect nail health, and what strategies can help control it?
Stress has a significant impact on nail health, causing breakage, brittleness and slowed growth. Physical or emotional stress can disrupt the hormonal and nutritional balance necessary for healthy nails. To mitigate these effects, we recommend regular relaxation activities such as yoga, meditation or breathing exercises. Effective stress management is therefore essential to maintaining nail health, as well as body and mind health.